Saturday, March 18, 2017

KUALA LUMPUR – The country needs courageous judges to instil confidence in the judicial system so that the institution remains respected, said Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.

Describing the current situation in the country as “challenging”, the Perak Ruler said it was crucial to ensure that the public has a high and clear regard of the judiciary.“We live in challenging times, in which our institutions sometimes seem to be under threat.

“More than ever, we need courageous and fair-minded judges to instil confidence that the judicial system remains sacrosanct in guarding the rights, interests and liberty of all,” Sultan Nazrin said in his address at the launch of the book “Justice Above All: Selected judgments of Tun Arifin Zakaria with commentaries”.

The book was launched in conjunction with the upcoming retirement of Arifin as Malaysia’s 13th Chief Justice.

Arifin was sworn in as Chief Justice on Sept 12, 2011, taking over the position from Tun Zaki Azmi.

Sultan Nazrin added that judges must be independent, impartial and have integrity.

He said judges must also strive relentlessly to dispense justice in accordance with the Rule of Law, which among others provides the foundation for economic growth and progress.

“By providing fair and prompt judicial decisions on matters concerning the enforcement of commercial rights, a well-functioning judicial system helps to promote a competitive and attractive economic climate in the country.